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Broken tibia. Cast is suddenly tighter than before from swelling, not sure if I should be worried

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kak7127
kak7127

I broke my tibia last Thursday (5 days ago). I was put in a long leg cast up to mid thigh. It's my first time breaking anything so it is extremely new to me and uncomfortable. The cast felt as though it was loosening slightly the last day and a half and now since last night it is very very tight. I'm assuming my leg is swollen underneath. I've been keeping it elevated and trying to get up as little as possible except for the bathroom and to go to the kitchen. Now it hurts like crap to put my leg down (it did before as well, but now even more). I took 3 motrin about 3 hours ago and it doesn't seem to have helped any. Is this okay? I'm really paranoid my circulation is being cut off or something. My toes are a little numb as well, just the tops, but I have been moving them around frequently. Please reply with any thoughts or advice.  

0 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • carol93583
    carol93583 kak7127

    Posted

    How about color and temp of your toes? Mottled? Cooler than usual? Can you feel pulse in your foot? If cast feels tighter, you probably have increased edema (swelling). I would suggest ER and physician. You might need cast removed and new replacement.
    • kak7127
      kak7127 carol93583

      Posted

      I can't reach far enough with this cast on to feel my toes sad they are normal colored until I get up and they turn dark red. I called my doctor, they said to go to urgent care at their clinic and then he's transferring me to an ortho that specializes in tibial fractures. So we'll see how it goes I guess!

  • linda01827
    linda01827 kak7127

    Posted

    I would absolutely call your doctor and tell him/her what's going on.  I am convinced serious damage can result from a too-tight cast.  Seems like numbness should be a red flag as well as pain.

    Good luck to you.

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